Well-Known First Responder Couple's Death Was The Result Of Murder-Suicide: Investigators

PLATTEKILL, NY — New details have emerged about a high-profile, apparent murder-suicide involving two well-known figures in the Hudson Valley.

On Friday, at 11:42 p.m., members of the Ulster County Sheriff's Office, the New York State Police, and the Town of Plattekill Police Department responded to a residence on Milton Turnpike following a report of two poeple who had been found unconscious and unresponsive inside their home.

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Members of the New Paltz Rescue Squad and Clintondale Fire Department also responded to the scene.

Upon arrival, police and emergency medical service personnel determined that both were dead inside the home. The investigation was turned over to the Ulster County Sheriff's Office.

The two found dead were identified as 54-year-old Melinda Brugger and 66-year-old James Brugger. Both were discovered by a family member and the family member's friend, who immediately called 911.

During the preliminary investigation, detectives say they discovered evidence indicating that an attempt had been made to conceal and tamper with evidence at the scene. Investigators from the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Forensic Identification Unit, and Major Crimes Unit then responded to assist with the investigation.

Detectives and investigators conducted an extensive examination of the residence and surrounding property, searching for, collecting, and analyzing physical evidence in an effort to establish the sequence of events.

As a result of the investigation, detectives report determining that James Brugger murdered his wife, Melinda Brugger, by shooting her multiple times and then tampered with evidence at the scene and removed evidence from the residence in an effort to conceal his actions. He then took his own life by shooting himself, according to detectives.

The motive for the killing appears to be the result of unresolved domestic issues, investigators said.

"The Ulster County Sheriff's Office extends its deepest condolences to the family, HealthAlliance Hospital, the City of Poughkeepsie Fire Department, Plattekill Fire Department, Milton Fire Department, and the entire first responder community during this difficult time," Ulster County Sheriff Sheriff Juan J. Figueroa, Jr. said in a media briefing on Monday. "Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragic loss."

The investigation was conducted with assistance from the Ulster County Medical Examiner's Office, the New York State Police, the Orange County Sheriff's Office K9 Unit, the Town of Plattekill Police Department, and the Ulster County District Attorney's Office.

"With the findings of the Sheriff's investigation, the stark reality of what happened to Melinda 'Mindy' Brugger has shaken all of us," Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger said in a statement. "Domestic violence is horrifically common, crossing every line of profession, income, and community. No amount of public service can excuse the violence that intentionally takes another human being's life."

The county executive said the tragedy hit close to home.

"Our prayers are with their families, colleagues, and the many first responders who are grieving," she said. "And to anyone experiencing domestic violence — or worried about someone who might be — please reach out for help. You are not alone, and support is available."

In Ulster County, Family of Woodstock's 24-hour domestic violence hotline: 845-679-2485 (individuals can also chat to this number). The Spanish hotline is available from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 845-679-5460.

Ulster County Crime Victims Assistance Crisis Hotline, 845- 340-3443, Mondays through Fridays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 845- 340-3442 nights, weekends and holidays, or call 911 if you are in immediate danger.

State of New York Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, call 800-942-6906 or text 844-997-2121.

First responders seeking assistance can contact the Ulster County Officer Wellness Unit at this email address or call 845-475-7536.